Eddie Murphy Paid for Rick James & Redd Foxx’s Funerals — But Didn’t Attend His Own Brother Charlie Murphy’s
Comedic legend Eddie Murphy is known not only for his groundbreaking career but also for his quiet generosity. Over the years, the Hollywood icon has reportedly paid for the funerals of many friends, mentors, and loved ones — including music legend Rick James and comedy great Redd Foxx.
But what surprises fans most is that despite his generosity, Eddie rarely attends funerals himself — even when it comes to those closest to him.
Eddie Says He Doesn’t “Do Well” at Funerals
In a recent interview, Eddie revealed that he’s only attended two funerals in his entire life — his father’s and his stepfather’s.
“I don’t do well at funerals,” Eddie reportedly explained. “That’s not my space. I’d rather remember people in the good times than sit in sadness.”
It’s a deeply personal stance — but one that’s raised eyebrows after fans noticed that he didn’t attend his brother Charlie Murphy’s funeral following his death in 2017.
Eddie Didn’t Attend Charlie Murphy’s Funeral
Charlie Murphy, Eddie’s older brother and a beloved comedian in his own right, passed away after a private battle with leukemia at age 57.
At the time, Charlie’s death shocked fans and devastated the comedy world. Tributes poured in from across Hollywood, with stars like Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, and Cedric the Entertainer attending the service to pay their respects.
But Eddie — despite helping cover expenses and reportedly supporting the family behind the scenes — did not attend the funeral.
Those close to him say that decision wasn’t about distance or disrespect — it was about grief.
“Eddie was heartbroken,” one family insider told Media Take Out. “He and Charlie were incredibly close. He helped arrange everything, but when it came time for the actual service, he just couldn’t handle it emotionally. He grieves privately.”
A Pattern of Private Grieving
That same emotional distance has been seen before.
When Redd Foxx — who mentored Eddie early in his career — died in 1991, Eddie quietly stepped in to pay for the entire funeral after learning Foxx’s estate was struggling to cover costs. He did the same when funk legend Rick Jamespassed away in 2004.
In both cases, friends say Eddie made sure his loved ones had a proper farewell, but — true to form — he didn’t attend the services.
“He’ll handle everything behind the scenes,” a source told Media Take Out, “but he doesn’t go. Funerals just hit him too hard.”
A Private Man in a Public World
Eddie’s approach to loss reflects a side of him that fans rarely see.
Though he’s spent decades making the world laugh, those close to him describe him as deeply sensitive, reflective, and spiritual — someone who prefers to honor memories in private rather than in front of cameras or crowds.
As one longtime friend put it: “People might not understand it, but that’s Eddie. He’ll take care of you in every way — he just can’t watch you go.”